Defense Minister Ehud Barak stated Israel is ready and willing to enter into a cessation of fighting with Hamas, but at present, such a declaration is premature.

Barak stated the IDF must continue monitoring events in Gaza, and the military is prepared for any eventuality. The senior minister added that there are matters regarding a ceasefire that must be worked out with Hamas, as well as the issue of the release of Gilad Shalit.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)